DRS to be enforced in Tests

Dubai: Following extensive trials, the decision review system (DRS) goes into operation from Tuesday with the start of the New Zealand v Pakistan Test series in Dunedin.

With the majority of players and match officials in favour of the system, as well as nine out of 10 Full Members voting for it, it will also be used for the Australia v West Indies series, which gets underway in Brisbane on Thursday.

The idea of the DRS is to eliminate obvious umpire errors. A simple guide to the system is attached and the full playing regulations can be found at http://icc-cricket.yahoo.net/rules_and_regulations.php. Any part of those documents can be reproduced for editorial purposes.

“We are excited about the introduction of this ground-breaking system," said David Richardson, ICC General Manager – Cricket.

“With the improvement of technology, umpires" mistakes are exposed and scrutinised like never before. This system will help alleviate the problems created when mistakes – which appear obvious on replays – are made.

“The system allows television technology to be used in a way that will not result in too many delays, will not de-skill the umpires and will take some pressure off the umpires. The fact is that trials showed that the system improved player behaviour and led to a significant reduction in the number of umpiring errors," said Mr Richardson.

With feedback to the ICC indicating that the majority of players and umpires are behind the system, it makes sense to persist with its implementation. In his report to the ICC following the trial, Billy Bowden from the Emirates Elite Panel of ICC Umpires was glowing in his praise for the DRS.

“Personally, having the DRS trial was the best thing since sliced bread," said Bowden.

“From an umpires point of view I embraced it, lived it and loved it. The effect was all positive for me but I wasn"t surprised one iota. Why? Well, it gave me confidence to make good, strong umpiring decisions and I did not fall in to the trap of relying on the DRS to bail me out. I felt in control, relaxed and happy umpiring in the Tests every day.

“I had two decisions reversed in my two Tests. I didn"t lose confidence but instead felt good that the right decision was made. It also gave me strength to get back in the zone again and concentrate on the next ball knowing I wouldn"t be criticised in the papers the next day.

“I"m excited about ICC"s DRS and I believe it will benefit the game. I am 100 per cent behind the ICC"s decision so bring it on!" he said.

Another umpire in agreement with the introduction of the system is ICC Umpire of the Year 2009 Aleem Dar, also of the elite panel.

“I think it will help reduce the chances of mistakes made on the field," he said. “I support the introduction of this system as it is designed to help umpires. It is a tough job out there nowadays, and the review system is helpful for the umpires. It will be good for the game," said Dar.